Administrators appointed to Game Group have closed 277 of its UK and Ireland stores with immediate effect. The closures will see 2,089 people lose their jobs this week – 132 of those in Scotland – following a review of the business by administrators PwC.

PwC confirmed it is in negotiations with “a number of parties” who have expressed an interest in purchasing part or all of the group.

In Scotland, 17 stores are to close, in Cumberauld; Dumbarton; Dundee; East Kilbride; Falkirk; Galashiels; Gretna;Glenrothes; Inverness; Perth and Stirling.

In Edinburgh, the Game stores on Princes Street and in the Ocean Terminal shopping centre will close and in Glasgow, a store at Hamleys, two on Sauchiehall Street and another in Buchanan Galleries will close.

Mike Jervis, joint administrator at PwC, said: “Our priority is to continue trading the business as normal while we continue to pursue a sale.

“The recent job losses are regrettable but will place the company in a stronger position while we explore opportunities to conclude a sale.

“My team and I will be doing all we can to help the affected employees at this difficult time.”

The remaining 333 stores employing 2,829 people will remain open while the administrators continue efforts to find a purchaser for the business.

PwC said it is working closely with employees affected by the closures to assist with claims for redundancy and other compensatory payments.